Man Dies While Mountain Biking (Photo)

UPDATE 2/6/18:

The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office has determined the death of an Ashland mountain biker was accidental. An autopsy revealed John Edward Thomas, Jr., 56, sustained significant head trauma during a fall from his bicycle. He was wearing a helmet.

Thomas was an experienced cyclist who was familiar with the Hitt Road trail. Thomas was apparently negotiating a dip in the trail when he lost control and crashed his bicycle on Monday.

Original release, 2/5/18:

ASHLAND, Ore. -- A 56-year-old Ashland man died Monday while mountain biking on a trail west of the city. On February 5, 2018, at 12:51 p.m., dispatch received a 911 call from a hiker who found the man and his bicycle on the ground near the Hitt Road trail, approximately two miles south of Strawberry Lane. The trail is a common route for hiking and mountain biking.

Ashland Police officers responded to the incident, which was found to have occurred outside the city limits. Jackson County Sheriff's Office deputies, JCSO Search and Rescue volunteers, and Ashland Fire and Rescue crews assisted with the recovery.

The Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office will work to confirm the cause of death. The man's wife has been notified of his death; his name will be released at a later time to allow friends and family members to be notified.